Hot weather can do more than just leave you sweaty and tired – it can also make you feel bloated, heavy, and uncomfortable. One of our customers recently contacted us, saying her bloating always gets worse when the weather warms up; when we stop and think about it, we do too!
Here’s why it happens:
Heat-related water retention – when the temperature rises, your blood vessels naturally dilate to help your body stay cool. This can lead to fluid leaking into surrounding tissues, especially in the hands, ankles, and even the abdomen – causing swelling and bloating.
Slower digestion – hot weather can slow down your digestive processes. This gives food more time to ferment in the intestines, which leads to the build-up of gas and bloating. Our Digestive Enzymes can support your gut in breaking down food more efficiently, helping to reduce that ‘inflated’ feeling.
Summer habits that don’t always help – we tend to eat more raw salads, drink more fizzy or alcoholic drinks, and eat later in the evening during summer. These habits can all contribute to excess gas. Tip: Try to avoid raw foods after 4pm! If you still love a salad for dinner, then take one of our Digestive Enzymes beforehand to help your digestive system cope with the raw, difficult to digest cellulose in the salad and don’t drink water with this meal.
Hydration matters more than ever
It’s easy to get dehydrated in summer. Your body prioritises sending water to your brain first (which is about 75% water), not your gut. This leaves your digestive system sluggish, often causing constipation and bloating. Keep sipping plain water throughout the day – your gut will thank you.
Tips to beat summer bloating
- Stay well-hydrated with plain, still water (avoid fizzy drinks)
- Limit raw foods after 4pm
- Take one Digestive Enzymes tablet before meals, especially if you’re eating heavier or unfamiliar foods
- Eat smaller, lighter meals more frequently to support digestion
- Avoid lying down right after eating – take a gentle walk instead
- Cut back on alcohol, especially carbonated or sugary cocktails
When to seek further help:
If your bloating is persistent and comes with nausea, changes in bowel habits, unexplained fatigue, or weight loss – it’s time to get checked by a healthcare professional.
Hot weather shouldn’t leave you feeling heavy and uncomfortable. Try making just a few small adjustments so that you can enjoy the summer – without the bloat. If you have any questions about a digestive, gut or women’s health issue, please get in touch.
